Edward VII Statue, Aberdeen

A Grand Tribute in Granite

Erected in 1914, the Edward VII Statue stands as one of Aberdeen’s most elaborate civic sculptures, a dignified tribute to King Edward VII, who reigned from 1901 to 1910. Crafted in granite and bronze, the statue was designed by the renowned sculptor Alfred Drury RA and carved by local stonemason James Philip. The king is depicted in the full regalia of the Order of the Garter, holding a sceptre and orb, symbolising royal authority and the unity of the realm. The polished red Peterhead granite plinth elevates the figure, anchoring this imperial presence in the heart of the Granite City.

Symbolism in Stone and Bronze

The monument’s lower section features a richly detailed bronze ornamental frieze that tells a story of empire and national identity. To the left, Britannia appears as a figure of peace, breaking a sword. In the centre stands St Andrew, Scotland’s patron saint, a reminder of the nation’s distinct heritage within the United Kingdom. On the right, three allegorical figures represent imperial unity: Britannia with her arm around figures symbolising India and Africa, while a fourth figure, representing Canada and Australia, reaches out in friendship to ‘The Mother of Nations’. The Latin motto ‘Honi soit qui mal y pense’ – ‘Shame on him who thinks evil of it’ – reinforces the chivalric and imperial ideals of the time.

Setting Among the Granite City’s Landmarks

Located at the junction of Union Terrace and Union Street, the statue occupies a prominent position in Aberdeen’s historic core, just steps from Union Terrace Gardens and near major cultural institutions like His Majesty’s Theatre and Aberdeen Art Gallery. The surrounding architecture, largely built from the city’s distinctive grey granite, provides a sober, enduring backdrop that contrasts with the statue’s ornate detailing. This setting makes the Edward VII Statue not just a standalone monument, but a key element in the city’s streetscape, linking commercial thoroughfares with green spaces and civic buildings.

A Living Part of the City’s Story

The statue has witnessed over a century of change in Aberdeen, from the early 20th‑century heyday of the British Empire to the modern, multicultural city of today. Its unveiling in 1914 coincided with a period of civic pride and investment in public art, and it has since become a familiar landmark for residents and visitors alike. While its imperial symbolism reflects the values of its time, the statue now also serves as a point of reflection on history, heritage, and how cities choose to remember their past. It remains a popular subject for photography and a quiet place to pause amid the bustle of the city centre.